Outreach / Education
The Wampanoag Tribe’s efforts at environmental protection do not end at Tribal borders. The Tribe has engaged in a variety of projects that increase the awareness not only of Tribal members, but of the Island as a whole.
The Climate Change Adaptation Plan has been completed in 2023. Planning to protect tribal lands includes an assessment of vulnerabilities and mitigation measures for all of the Tribe’s land area. However, there are tribal members living and working on lands and waters that are not tribally owned. Tribal members rely on sustenance resources found in, on, and around the lands and waters of the entirety of Noepe. In order to adequately protect the lives, property, and livelihoods of all the tribal members on the Vineyard, it is essential to also review vulnerabilities and mitigation measures in the context of Noepe as a whole, as well as to identify actions and plan for partnerships that might support protection for those vulnerabilities. This plan was prepared with the input and guidance of a Tribal Climate Change Adaptation Planning Team, with representatives from the Tribal Council, the Tribe’s Land Use Committee and Land Use Commission, the general membership of the Tribe, and the surrounding community. Thanks to many who have supported us in this endeavor, with assistance and funding provided by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the US Fish and Wildlife Service, and the United States Environmental Protection Agency.
Aquinnah: http://www.aquinnah-ma.gov/
Town of Chilmark: http://www.chilmarkma.gov/
Bay Scallop Management Plan Draft 2017
Menemsha Pond Brochure 2017
The Island Blue Pages, was one high-profile success. The Tribe worked with more than 20 Island non-profits to produce a 54-page, full-color booklet to educate Island residents about water quality, and explaining how they can help keep our waters clear. Using EPA funding, the Tribe had over 30,000 Island Blue Pages printed and distributed across the Vineyard. The Tribe even had the booklet translated into Portuguese for our Island’s Brazilian population.
The Tribe also worked with the Martha’s Vineyard Striped Bass and Bluefish Derby to educate anglers about the dangers of lead fishing tackle. In 2008 and 2009, the Natural Resources Department distributed over 5,000 education packets and samples of lead-free weights to all Derby participants. The Department also did outreach at the Kids’ Trout Derby, offering free lead-free tackle and prizes.
The Natural Resources Department also makes an effort to be a part of Island-wide events, such as the Annual PowWow and Living Local, to educate Island residents and visitors about environmental issues, and about the Tribe’s efforts to protect and preserve our Island home.